How to Train a Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever, also called the Yellow Retriever, is a sporting dog that developed in Great Britain. This breed stands between 20 and 24 inches and weighs between 60 and 80 pounds. They can have straight or wavy coats that are soft and silk and come in shades of cream or gold. They are an affectionate breed that makes a great family dog.

To care for a Golden Retriever you will need to groom them frequently to keep up with their high shed rate. A firm bristle brush works great on the coat of the Golden Retriever. Bathing is only required on an as needed basis. This is a working dog that enjoys long walks and plenty of play time. This breed only has a few health concerns that you will need to watch out for including epilepsy, hip dysplasia, and cataracts.

Golden retrievers are one of the most popular dogs in the world. They are loved for their friendly demeanor and happy disposition. In terms of intelligence, they are among of the top dog breeds.

Golden retrievers are warm and affectionate companions, they are dependable hunting partners and they have versatile working attributes.

Origin and History of the Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are a result of meticulous and exact breeding. It was the original brainchild of Lord Tweedmouth in the Scottish Highlands. Lord Tweedmouth wanted a hunting dog with amazing tracking and retrieving abilities, intelligence, and toughness. He also wanted the dog to be able to work in harsh climate and terrain at the same time, receptive to training and commands.

Lord Tweedmouth originally crossed his Yellow Retriever with the, now extinct, Tweed Water Spaniel. As he went along with his breeding program, he later added an Irish Setter, Bloodhound, St. John’s Water Dog, and some black retrievers into the mix. He got completely driven towards his goals and inbred his dogs in accordance to his vision.

Appearance and Abilities

Golden Retrievers are very beautiful looking dogs with striking wavy golden coats. They are double-coated and water-repellent They are medium to large in size.

A hunting dog by nature they have a natural instincts and are perfect in the field, retrieving game animals. They are strong and sturdy with powerful muzzles.

Golden retrievers are versatile dogs. Aside from retrieving, they are also great trackers and detectors. It is not uncommon to see them being used in law enforcement as sniffing dogs. They are also employed in search-and-rescue operations. Golden Retrievers are natural guide dogs as well.

Golden Retriever Temperament and Tendencies

Golden retrievers are active and alert dogs. They have a well-mannered and friendly disposition that made them very well-loved household pets. They are intelligent and hard-working, and eager to please their masters.

Young Golden Retrievers are boisterous and very playful. But they are never aggressive towards anyone, even animals. They get along with other dogs and can be very trusting. If there is one thing this breed can’t do, it’s guarding your house. A Golden Retriever will rarely be an effective guard dog.

They are very good with children. They are patient with them but their overly active nature may knock small children and elderly people down.

They love the water and thrive on playing in the water.

Golden Retriever Training and Care

Golden retrievers do great in different kinds of living conditions. Just be sure to provide your dog with regular exercise and mental stimulation.

They are confident but they can be dominant. As usual, the owner must have natural authority over them. Never hurt or be harsh to Golden Retrievers. They are not receptive to that kind of training.

Golden Retrievers are naturally social animals. That being said socialization should still be done early and regularly.

They love to play fetch and swim if you have a pool. Along with play, you must train the Golden Retriever at least basic commands. Obedient Golden Retrievers are very easy to manage as they become adults.

Always be particular with the feedings. They tend to gain weight. Being overweight is common for Golden Retrievers and bloating as well.

Grooming is easy with them. Brush their coats occasionally and bathe them as often as needed.

This is a dog training topic I’ve wanted to tackle for a long time. I’ve done tons of videos both free (check out my Youtube page) and paid (check out our dog training DVDs). I’ve written articles. I’ve... Read more